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The old Shartenberg site at Chapel and State streets will become the 360 State redevelopment project, the center of Mayor John DeStefano's plan to revitalize downtown.

There are big construction projects and then there are really bIg construction projects.

The shovels hit ground in New Haven late Monday morning for the official ground breaking but work had already begun on what just might be the largest residential building to ever be built in Connecticut.

The old Shartenberg site at Chapel and State streets will become the 360 State redevelopment project, the center of Mayor John DeStefano's plan to revitalize downtown.

When construction is finished, 360 State will be a 30-floor mixed-use development with 500 apartment units, retail space and parking. There will be studios as well as three-bedroom penthouse units with balconies. Fifty of the units will be affordable, according to Becker and Becker, the developer and architect.

DeStefano said he hopes the project will bring revitalization but commuters aren't as sold on the project.

They're preparing for road closures and altered bus routes.

“You know, it's a hassle. Especially mothers who have to use our bus system. I think